Gnosis
Pursuing the idea of the 'knowledge within', Gnosis is an exploration of the inner and outer battles of characters.
Drawing from sources both ancient and modern, Gnosis is inspired in part by the Hindu epic the Mahabharata and the story of Gandhari, the wife of the blind king who blindfolds herself for life to share his journey. As her family becomes embroiled in an internecine war, Gnosis explores notions of inner knowledge and clouded vision, experiencing darkness while being blind to light.
One of the world's most original and exciting dance artists, Akram Khan's inimitable style combines classical Indian Kathak dance with his contemporary dance roots. Pursuing the idea of the 'knowledge within', Gnosis is an exploration of the inner and outer battles of characters, the human and the godly on a pathway of transformation culminating in a shattering conclusion.
Khan is accompanied on stage by an ensemble of exceptional musicians from around the world and acclaimed dancer Fang-Yi Sheu from Taiwan. This revival of Gnosis has been commissioned by the Edinburgh International Festival.
Now when (Khan) dances, he doesn't just tell his own story - he tells all our stories
The Arts Desk on Desh, 2011
His art speaks tremendously of tremendous things
Financial Times
Akram Khan Artistic director, choreographer and dancer
Fang-Yi Sheu Dancer (Guest artist)
Koushik Aithal Vocals
B C Manjunath Mridanga
Kartik Raghunathan Violin
Lucy Railton Cello
Sanju Sahai Tabla
Bernhard Schimpelsberger Percussion
Ruth Little Dramaturgy
Fabiana Piccioli Lighting and set designer
Kimie Nakano and Kei Ito Costume designers